Free Market Friday: Mental health, substance abuse transformation

The lives of those suffering from mental illnesses and substance abuse addictions in Oklahoma have been nearly unbearable for generations. Mental illnesses and substance abuse addictions are complex, necessitating all aspects of life to help those who suffer from these afflictions.

Like so many societal challenges, they are only initially overcome by individuals who see a need and act to change an unbearable reality.

One such individual is business owner Jack Turner of Oklahoma City. If you have experience with the transportation, oil and gas, or agriculture industries you know well the entrepreneurial dedication and success of Turner. He is the classic story of a hardworking Oklahoman who has generated millions of dollars in economic activity that has benefited and employed Oklahomans.

Many know of Turner’s business accomplishments, but may not know his passion and dedication to help the lives of Oklahomans who suffer from mental illnesses and substance abuse addictions.

Just like Turner is not afraid of hard work, he also is not afraid of being vocal about the need for cultural transformation in how we view mental health and substance abuse afflictions. Like so many, Turner was personally affected by a family member who suffered from an addiction to alcohol – for him the issue hits so close to home because it’s a challenge his wife battled for years.

After being frustrated by not being able to find help for his wife in the places he thought he should be able to, they finally connected with Alcoholics Anonymous and thus began their journey to clarity, recovery, and his dedication to do all he could to help those suffering like his wife.

Whether it is Turner’s efforts to support faith-based programs and medical treatment or his passion for criminal justice reform for non-violent offenders, he is an example for all of us.

Turner’s example is timely. Now that the ballot titles have been settled by the Oklahoma Supreme Court, Oklahomans have an opportunity in the upcoming election to support two ballot measures, State Questions 780 and 781, which will reform sentencing requirements for non-violent offenses, particularly those involving substance abuse. These changes are long overdue, and Oklahoma’s culture is eager to embrace such changes because of the leadership of people like Turner.

Jonathan Small serves as president of the Oklahoma Council of Public Affairs (www.ocpathink.org).